recriminate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /rɪˈkrɪməˌneɪt/
KK: /rɪˈkrɪməˌneɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To respond to an accusation by making a counter-accusation.
Example
During the argument, he began to recriminate, blaming her for his mistakes.
Tense Forms
Past: recriminated
Past Participle: recriminated
Conversation
I heard they started to recriminate each other during the meeting.
Really? That sounds intense!
Yeah, it got pretty heated when they began pointing fingers.
I guess that's what happens when tensions run high.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accuse
blame
charge
Antonyms
defend
exonerate
absolve
transitive verb
Definition
To accuse someone back after they have accused you.
Example
During the argument, she decided to recriminate instead of apologizing.
Tense Forms
Past: recriminated
Past Participle: recriminated
Conversation
I can't believe she recriminates me every time we argue.
Yeah, that can be really frustrating.
I just wish we could discuss things without pointing fingers.
Root Explanation
Recriminate is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "criminari" (meaning to accuse). The word describes the act of accusing someone in return or again, often in response to an accusation.
Memory Tip
Think of 'accusing again' — 're-' means again, and 'criminari' means to accuse.
Visually Confused Words
excriminate
criminate
unrecriminative
prediscriminate
regerminate
incriminate
criminative
verminate